The Pride Center Voice Fall 2011

The Pride Center Voice Fall 2011

The Pride Center launches a new mediacampaign designed to raise awareness ofThe Center and the vital services, programsand activities it provides to the community.

New Campaign to Build Awareness of the Center
"I Love the Pride Center, Because ..."
The Pride Center launches a new media campaign designed to raise awareness of The Center and the vital services, programs and activities it provides to the community. Titled "I Love the Pride Center, because ...", the campaign utilizes portraits of community members holding signs that explain exactly what about The Pride Center they value the most. During initial portrait sessions, renowned photographer Dennis Dean
captured powerful photographs of community leaders, elected officials, entertainers, business owners, community activists and Center volunteers. Subjects in the photos display signs that convey specific reasons why they value the work of The Pride Center. Examples of the portraits accompany this article. "The campaign has two phases. The initial phase utilizes local print media, targeting the
local LGBT community. Portrait posters will be displayed in the community, as well. The second phase capitalizes on expanded reach provided through social media. At community venues and events, individuals will be invited to have their photo taken for use on their profile pages of Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites, to be accompanied by their reasons for loving The Pride Center. In this way, we aim to build
increased awareness in a manner that is highly visible and cost effective" states Paul Hyman, Executive Director. Messages conveyed in the ad campaign are funny, touching, genuine and personal. Importantly, they express practical benefits provided at the Center, reflecting unique perspectives and shared values that unite us as a community. Photo credit: Dennis Dean
Center to Host LGBTQ Senior Health Expo
150 Students Get a Fresh Start
The Pride Center Donates Student Backpacks to Elementary School
The Pride Center's newly-formed young professional group, The Varsity Club, in partnership with Women in Network and the Gay and Lesbian Business Exchange came together for Judy Shepherd's 6th annual Backpack Drive benefitting Thurgood Marshall Elementary School. A total of 153 backpacks, 325 notebooks, 400 composition books, 3,500 sheets of paper, 316 highlighter pens, 1,450 pencils and 24 boxes of crayons were donated. The annual backpack drive has demonstrated to the school that it can depend on the generosity of the LGBT community to provide backpacks and school supplies for those students who otherwise wouldn't have the necessary materials to help ensure a successful school year. Thurgood Marshall Elementary School principal, Ms. Vega, has stated that over the last few years the school has risen to become a B+ -rated school which would not have been possible without the assistance of the LGBT community and the Pride Center.
On October 22, The Pride Center will host the second annual LGBT Senior Health Expo. In conjunction with the Florida Assisted Living Coalition, SAGE and the Annie Appleseed Foundation, the Center will provide an exciting day of activities in the Main Hall of Building A. Better health is closer than you think � the LGBT Senior Health Expo will offer seniors a comprehensive overview of healthcare services available to the senior LGBT community. The Expo will consist of a trade show-format with various LGBT-friendly medical, professional and financial service providers eager to assist. More than 45 vendors will be on-hand to address questions and provide information needed to make appropriate health-related decisions. Medical staff will be on hand to provide featured health screenings, administer flu shots and more. Don't miss out on the raffles and entertainment!
A healthy and tasty organic lunch will be served on a first-come, first-served basis which is sponsored by the Annie Apple Seed Foundation. "Lunch & Learn" lectures will include important topics such as Medicare, HMOs, Sex and Seniors and more. Presented by 5 Star Senior Living and Willow Wood, the LGBT Senior Health Expo is free and open to seniors. Please RSVP by calling the Florida Assisted Living Coalition at (800) 939-2650 and provide them with your name and contact telephone number.
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Back to the Future
Paul Hyman, Executive Director
Last week I had the opportunity, along with our colleagues from SunServe and Equality Florida, to participate in The Broward County School Board Workshop. School Board members assembled to review various plans for the coming year, including the structure and priorities of its Diversity Committee. Community input was sought from a variety of constituents. Rewarding and notable was the inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity as a priority and concern of a diverse array of committee and community members, on behalf of Broward County's public school students. While important decisions lie ahead regarding how to advocate for all young people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, I was honored to be present for such a vital discussion. Providing a solid foundation for LGBT youth is vital to their future and that of our community. The focus of my social work training was on services to the elderly. Throughout my life, among personal experiences with grandparents and close friends as well as professional work with older people, I find it fascinating and worthwhile to look back through the eyes of the elderly. At the Center, periodic visits to our Senior Advisory Council's weekly Tuesday morning Coffee and Conversation group provides me with a satisfying opportunity to connect with a sizable group of LGBT individuals whose life stories and coming out experiences provide the foundation on which our current LGBT community center movement rests. Providing stable resources for our valued LGBT seniors is vital to their future and that of our community. The best way to support the Center's ability to serve old and young people, and everyone in between, is to contribute and participate. Volunteer and financial resources are well utilized at the Center. They enable us to provide events like this month's Senior Health Expo and Halloween Youth Bash. Volunteers and donors are the lifeblood of the Center and are vital to the healthy future of our community!
2040 N. Dixie Highway, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33305 Mail Correspondence to: P.O. Box 70518, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33307-0518 (954) 463-9005 � Fax (954) 764-6522 Email: info@PrideCenterFlorida.org Website: www.PrideCenterFlorida.org Board of Directors Richard Stoll, Esq, President Ilene Berliner, Vice President Rick Shapiro, CPA, Treasurer David Feinberg, Secretary Ted Adcock Robert Boo Chris Caputo Irwin Drucker Brenda Hartley Jack Johnson George Kling Lea P. Krauss, Esq, P.A. Donn Rubin Jim Walker Pride Center Staff Paul Hyman, MBA, LCSW, Executive Director, phyman@PrideCenterFlorida.org Kristofer Fegenbush, MSW, Deputy Director, kfegenbush@PrideCenterFlorida.org Janet Weissman, Business Manager, jweissman@PrideCenterFlorida.org Jorge Gardela, Health Outreach Director, jgardela@PrideCenterFlorida.org Jason Burns, Major Gifts Officer, jburns@PrideCenterFlorida.org Frank Gurucharri, PALS Project Manager, fgurucharri@PrideCenterFlorida.org Samantha McCoy, Customer Service Coordinator, smccoy@PrideCenterFlorida.org Jeff Grigsby, LIFE Coordinator, jgrigsby@PrideCenterFlorida.org Magno Morales, CHOICES Coordinator, mmorales@PrideCenterFlorida.org Listron "Blue" Mannix, Minority Testing Initiative Manager, bmannix@PrideCenterFlorida.org Andres Santofimio, CRCS Counselor, asantofimio@PrideCenterFlorida.org Emilio Aponte, RESPECT Coordinator, eaponte@PrideCenterFlorida.org Albert Taylor, Health Coordinator, ataylor@PrideCenterFlorida.org S.F. Makalani-Mahee, Data Entry Specialist, smakalani-mahee@PrideCenterFlorida.org Michael Childers, LIFE Goes On Coordinator, mchilders@PrideCenterFlorida.org Daniel Dardenne, Testing Specialist, ddardenne@PrideCenterFlorida.org Shanna Ratliff, Information Analyst, sratliff@PrideCenterFlorida.org Charles Dickey, Health Counselor, cdickey@PrideCenterFlorida.org Yamil Cruz, Health Educator, ycruz@PrideCenterFlorida.org Gary Sheppard, Testing Specialist, gsheppard@PrideCenterFlorida.org Mitchell Jerus, Youth Coordinator, mjerus@PrideCenterFlorida.org Clarence Collins, Facilities Assistant, ccollins@PrideCenterFlorida.org Clifton Squire, Maintenance Technician, csquire@PrideCenterFlorida.org
Punch Out Breast Cancer
The Pride Center will host Breast Fest 2011 on Saturday, October 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Equality Park, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. This day of celebration and education about breast health boasts a diverse array of fun, informative activities for a wide community -- women, men, trans, seniors and young people. Highlights include the Brass Knuckle Bombshell Burlesque Troupe, a Tripe Touch Instructor, free bra fittings, breast cancer survivor testimonials, health seminars for women and men, interesting speakers, informational booths from various community organizations, live entertainment, food and "goodie" bags. Pride Center staff, volunteers and interns have organized a wide coalition of community partners for the event, including Gilda's Club, Women In Network, the American Cancer Society, Broward Health, the John W. Nick Foundation, Care Resource, Mary Kay and Omni Home Health Care. Educating the LGBTQ community on breast cancer risks and linking them to care remain vital priorities for the Pride Center. The Centers for Disease Control has
Pride Center Presents Breast Fest 2011
found that lesbian and bisexual women are at greater risk for both developing breast cancer and for being diagnosed at a later stage of the disease for a variety of reasons. Lesbians are less likely to get preventive services for cancer, including annual screenings. Discrimination and poor cultural competence by some health care providers can prevent LGBTQ persons from seeking care. Transgender persons are less likely to be insured than heterosexual or LGB individuals. Senior LGBT individuals can face additional barriers to health because of isolation and a lack of social services and culturally competent providers. "We're committed to improving the health and wellness of our community," says Kristofer Fegenbush, Deputy Director. "Breast Fest is one step in a long road we're pursuing to bring awareness, education, outreach and service linkage around breast health. It should be a fun day." Join The Pride Center in the quest to enrich, encourage and educate the community about breast health and needs through this fun, informative event.
Meet: Samantha McCoy
The Pride Center's New Customer Service Coordinator
Samantha McCoy is already making her mark on the Pride Center as its new Customer Service Coordinator. "She's made such a vital impact in a short time," says Kristofer Fegenbush, Deputy Director. "Volunteers, staff, visitors and vendors tell me everyday how her warmth, attention to detail, sincerity, humor and standards of excellence have improved the work of the Center. I'm amazed by her combination of skill, poise, energy and experience. We're lucky to have her." As Customer Service Coordinator, Samantha ensures high-quality service to the Center's visitors, volunteers and groups. Her duties include coordinating the following service areas: information and referral services at the Center's reception and call center, volunteer activities, groups that meet at the Center, Main Hall and room rental, the monthly Flea Market, membership recruitment and community events. Samantha was born and raised in South Florida and has one son, Omari. Her experience includes working at American Express' Travel Related Services in Customer Service Management. She also was very involved in community service, volunteering for the Ronald McDonald House in Miami, Gilda's Club in Ft. Lauderdale, the AIDS Walk, Women in Distress and the Pride Center. She is currently the chapter president of the Beta Phi Omega Sorority, a national multi-cultural lesbian, bi, straight organization.
In her spare time (and it's hard to believe she has any spare time) she enjoys taking impromptu weekend trips, cheering her brother on (a professional MMA fighter), hanging out with her roller derby friends, performing Italian opera, crafting, practicing yoga or just sitting in quiet meditation. "It is my honor to work with everyone at the Pride Center," says Samantha. "I enjoy meeting and working with so many in the community. I'm so excited I could just burst into glitter!"
The Pride Center Voice
Editor: Bob Kecskemety Design: David Griffiths, Creative Director Production Managers: Chris Caputo and Kristofer Fegenbush Advertising Manager: Jason Burns Contributing Writers: Paul Hyman, Bob Kecskemety, Sebastian Fortino, Michael Childers, Frank Gurucharri, Listron "Blue" Mannix, Samantha McCoy, Mitchell Dejerus, Jason Burns, Emilio Aponte and Kristofer Fegenbush Photographers: Dennis Dean, Steven Shires, Emilio Aponte, Samantha McCoy
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Women of Color Health Expo
Over 100 women attended the 1st annual Women of Color Health Expo held at The Pride Center at Equality Park on September 24. The Women of Color Health Expo was sponsored by Arrow, Rainbow Ladies and Beta Phi Omega Sorority/Beta Iota Chapter. The purpose of this event was to offer education and health screenings for women of color who are an underserved and at risk population. Two women were found with lumps in their breasts. At least one other was found to be at risk for ovarian cancer. While all of those women need further tests, the expo revealed the lack of access to affordable health care.
Sunday Founders Brunch
In what is becoming an annual event, in July the Founders gathered at the Center for 2nd annual Sunday Brunch. The Center was lucky to have our original founder, Alan Schubert at the event. It's amazing how much the Center has grown since it all started in his living room in 1993. Thank you, Alan! Photo credit: Steven Shires
Moderated community chat about sexual violence hosted by The Pride Center in collaboration with the Broward LGBT Domestic Violence Coalition. This event addressed the safety, effects, and needs surrounding sexual violence to gay/bisexual men. The event was a great success bringing more than 100 participants from the community. Being the first event of its kind, A Night for Men opened the doors for an ongoing community awareness on a very stigmatize topic.
A Night for Men: Regaining our Power and Control
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Community Outreach Day / Halloween Madness
The Pride Center Plans a Great Day for the Entire Family
Halloween has always meant a day and evening of fun, and this year � on Saturday, October 29, The Pride Center has created an entire day of fun and learning for the entire family! Sheriff's Community Day at The Pride Center, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This huge community and family outreach collaboration with Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) will include police vehicles, paintable fire truck, snow cones, a bounce house, MacGruff the Crime Dog, music, food, and a sketch artist. Come out to meet BSO personnel and Quiggley, the BSO mascot, and the stars of "Police Women of Broward County" and K9 Unleashed. You can also check out some of the latest SWAT and fire rescue safety equipment, and patrol vehicles. Free child fingerprinting will be provided by Crime Stoppers of Broward! Kids Costume Contest While outdoor activities are happening, a Kids Costume Contest will take place inside the Main Hall, cosponsored by The Pride Center and South Florida Family Pride. Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes at 2 p.m! Halloween Youth Bash From 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., there will be a Halloween Youth Bash titled "Halloween Madness." Don't miss this fun party being cosponsored by The Pride Center and Pridelines. In addition to the dance, there will be a costume contest, food and drinks, music, prizes and more! Admission is $10 per person, $15 per couple ages 14 through 21. "We're so excited to host this event at The Pride Center," said Listron "Blue" Mannix, the Center's Minority Testing Initiative Manager. "To bring young LGBTQI and their allies together in a safe space, to celebrate is tremendous fun! We love our collaboration with Pridelines Youth Services, Drag It Out and others on this event!"
Calendar of Events
Thursday/Friday, October 13 & 14 � Latino HIV/AIDS Leadership Summit A free community-wide effort in recognition of National Latino AIDS Awareness Day for the Latino community, service providers for people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS in conjunction with Latinos en Accion and the Florida Department of Health. Welcome Reception Oct. 13, 6 - 9 p.m., Summit Oct. 14, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Both held at The Pride Center, Bldg. A, Main Hall. Saturday, October 15 � Breast Fest (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Breast health awareness featuring informational booths, seminars on breast health, tripletouch demonstrations, bra fittings, entertainment and community support from various health care providers. Free. Presented by Women in Network, Gilda's Club, American Cancer Society, Broward Health and more. Monday, October 17 � AIDS Drug Awareness Program (ADAP) Awareness Day (5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) Join us for this important event examining current ADAP challenges with a speakers' panel and news coverage. A segment of the AIDS Quilt will also be presented. Free and open to the public. Presented by the HRC, Department of Health, Broward House, Tibotec Therapeutics and Poverello. Being held at The Pride Center, Bldg. A, Main Hall. Saturday, October 22 � Senior Health Expo (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) Trade show with various LGBTQ-friendly medical, professional and financial services that benefit seniors. Free and open to the public. Being held at The Pride Center, Bldg. A, Main Hall. Held in cooperation with the Florida Assisted Living Coalition, SAGE and Annie Appleseed Foundation. Saturday, October 29 � Sheriff's Community Day at the Pride Center and more! (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Fire and police vehicles, snow cones, MacGruff the Crime Dog, sketch artists and more! Kids' costume contest indoors with South Florida Family Pride. The Pride Center, Bldg. A, Main Hall and outdoors. Saturday, October 29 � Halloween Madness Youth Bash (7 p.m. to 11 p.m.) A Halloween dance and party for LGBTQ youth presented by The Pride Center and PrideLines Youth Services. Remember your costumes! Being held at The Pride Center, Bldg. A, Main Hall. Saturday, November 5 � "Evening in Paradise" (starting at 7 p.m.) A new fundraising event benefiting the Pride Center being held at the home of Board Member Jim Walker and his partner, Lee Rubin at 1600 N.E. 64 Street in Fort Lauderdale. Open to the public with a $100 donation. Tuesday, December 6 � Hotspots! Magazine Holiday Party (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) Annual holiday party benefiting the The Pride Center being held at the Embassy Suites Hotel. Donation/tickets at door and in advance. And Don't Forget... � Flea Market (first Saturday of each month, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.) Roughly 100 vendors with proceeds to benefit The Pride Center. Free and open to the public. Vendor booth price varies. Held outside in front of The Pride Center. For more information, email smccoy@pridecenterflorida.org. � BINGO (second Saturday of each month, doors open 6:30 p.m, games begin 7:30 p.m.) Proceeds benefit The Pride Center, monthly sponsorships available. $15. Held at The Pride Center, Bldg. A, Main Hall. For more information, email jweissman@pridecenterflorida.org
Groups at the Pride Center
For further information call Samantha McCoy at 954-463-9005. Visit www.pridecenterflorida.org Calendar of Events for meeting room assignments.
WEEKLY RECURRING MEETINGS � AA � Attitude Adjustment Group, Recovery, Monday - Friday, 7 - 8 a.m. � AA � Candlelight Meditation Group, Recovery, Tuesdays, 8:30-9:30 p.m. � AA � Each Day a New Beginning, Recovery, Daily, 9-10 a.m. � AA � Northeast Group, Recovery, Mondays 8:30 - 9:30 p.m. � AA � Sober, Proud and Gay, Recovery, Fridays, 8:30 - 10 p.m. � AA � Pride Meeting, Recovery, Daily, 5:45 - 6:45 p.m. � Coffee and Conversation � SAC, Social/Seniors, Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. - 12 noon � Gay Bridge Club, Fun, Monday & Friday, 1 - 4 p.m. � Gay Catholics Group, Spiritual, Tuesdays, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. � Gay Hearts, Social, Sunday, 1 - 3:30 p.m. � Man2Man Talk, Social, Monday, 7 - 8:30 p.m. � Monday Night Women's Group, Social, Mondays, 7:30 - 9 p.m. � Mary Kay for Men & Women, Social, Wednesdays, 7 - 9 p.m. � Narcotics Anonymous Rainbow Group, Recovery, Wednesdays, 8 - 9 p.m. � New Path Narcotics Anonymous Group, Recovery, Monday/Tuesday/Thursday, 7 - 8 p.m. � New Path Narcotics Anonymous Group, Recovery, Saturday/Sunday, 4 - 5 p.m. � Overeaters Anonymous, Recovery, Sundays, 12 noon - 1:30 p.m. � Overeaters Anonymous, Recovery, Fridays, 7:30 - 9 p.m. � Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club, Social, Tuesdays, 6:30 - 10 p.m., Thursdays 7 - 10:30 p.m., Saturdays, 12:30 - 4p.m. � POZ Attitudes Here and Now, HIV Support, Wednesdays, 7 - 9 p.m. � Positive Connections, HIV Support, Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8 p.m. � SAGE Men's Social, Social/Seniors, Wednesdays, 1 - 3 p.m. � Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA), Recovery, Fridays, 7 - 8 p.m. � Senior Exercise Class Health, Senior, Monday/Wednesday/Friday, 10:15 - 11:15 a.m. � Senior Exercise Class Health, Senior, Monday/Wednesday/Friday, 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. � Senior Gay Men's Support Group, Support, Mondays, 11 a.m. - 12 noon � Smart Recovery, Recovery, Thursdays, 6:30 - 8 p.m. � Toastmasters, Educational, Mondays, 7:15 - 9:15 p.m. � Women's Non-Competitive Basketball, Social, Saturdays, 3 - 5 p.m. � Pride Center Young Adult Group, (23-35 yoa), Support, Thursdays, 8:30 - 9:45 p.m. BI-WEEKLY RECURRING MEETINGS � Ballet & Opera Group, Educational, 2nd & 4th Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m. � Bereavement Group, Support, 2nd & 4th Sunday, 2 - 4 p.m. � Bisexual Connections, Support, 1st & 3rd Wednesday, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. � Broward Anti-War Coalition, Support, 1st & 3rd Wednesday, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. � Double Winners, Support, Wednesdays, 5:45 - 6:45 p.m. � Games Day, Social, 2nd & 4th Tues, 1-4 p.m. � Lovers & Friends, Closed, 2nd & 4th Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m. � POZ Long-Term Survivor, Gay Men/HIV Support, 1st & 3rd Thursday, 6:30 - 8 p.m. � Senior Games Day, Social, 2nd & 4th Tuesday, 1 - 4 p.m. � Spirituality Think Tank, Spiritual, 2nd & 4th Thursday, 7 - 8 p.m. MONTHLY RECURRING MEETINGS/EVENTS � AVER (American Veterans for Equal Rights), Open to all Vets, 2nd Tuesday, 7:30 - 9 p.m. � Big Men's Club: Chubbies & Chasers, Social, 3rd Saturday, 1 - 4 p.m. � Pride Center BINGO, Open to Public, 2nd Saturday, 7 - 10 p.m. � Dolphin Democrats, Monthly Meeting, 2nd Wednesday, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. � Lavender Speaks, Social, 3rd Thursday, 7:30 - 10 p.m. � Pride Center Memorial Garden Club, Educational, 3rd Wednesday, 7 - 9 p.m. � Pride Center Flea Market, Open to Public, 1st Saturday, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. � Primetimers, Open to Public, 1st Sunday, 2 - 4:30 p.m. � SAGE Computer Club, Educational, 2nd Wednesday, 4 - 6 p.m. � SAGE Movie, Social, 3rd Monday, 4 - 6 p.m. � S. F. Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf, Support, 1st Sunday, 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. � TERI Monthly Meeting, 3rd Monday, 6:30 - 8 p.m. � Transgender Support Group, Support, 3rd Friday, 7 - 8:30 p.m. � Women in Network, Social, 1st Wednesday, 7 - 9 p.m.
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Youth Gay Meth Free
The Pride Center Expands Efforts to Battle Crystal Meth Addiction
The Pride Center at Equality Park, in association with Lambda Men's Brotherhood, created a social networking program this year called Youth Gay Meth Free (YGMF). YGMF caters to the young GBTQ men in South Florida who struggle with crystal methamphetamine addiction � commonly known as "Crystal," "Tina" or "Ice" � along with other substances. YGMF provides outreach across a variety of social media platforms--including websites, Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr with the goal of grabbing the attention of young GBTQ males struggling with addiction and compulsive meth use. After creating and utilizing the social marketing campaign, the program staff has reached over 700 youth directly through the social network sites, providing information and education. Among those 700 people, the program's staff recruited 82 people in the target population for further service. "I'm very excited about this new program because there are so many young men struggling with additions," said Mitchell Jerus, Youth Coordinator with the YGMF Program. "We already have so much of our online social networking programs in place. And we provide a peer counseling program both online and offline." "These young men often feel alone with no one to talk to about their problems," continued Jerus. "That's why we're here, so they know they're not alone and that someone is there to help. We anticipate this program will be very successful and we're using the slogan `Get Your Shine Back' showing these young men that they can emerge from their dark places." Numerous indicators confirm problematic crystal methamphetamine use among some sexually active men who have sex with other men. GBTQ/MSM young people's questions regarding sexual identity and sexual behavior need to be addressed. These young men need skills to address and resist using substances as they become exposed to new behavioral options in the gay community. "In my experience catering to LGBTQ youth and their families, many of the young men I've met that use crystal meth are young sex workers: dancers, gogo boys, adult film performers, escorts, etcetera," said Listron "Blue" Mannix, Expanding Testing Initiative Manger overseeing the YGMF program. Linking some members of the target community to appropriate services sometimes can be a challenge. Some individuals of the target community are not open to stating their addiction, recognizing compulsive behaviors or seeking needed help or appropriate support. "We're reaching out to other organizations that can help this program flourish and become the hope for a better future to others that it's supposed to be," concluded Jerus. "We feel that collaborating with programs such as Meth and Men, the Sunserve Youth Group, MProject and other treatment centers, that young men struggling can get the help that they need and deserve." Marketing materials have been created and have been disturbed to the affiliate programs and utilized for outreach and recruitment. The core of this program is located at the Pride Center at Equality Park on Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors, Florida or by going online to Facebook and looking for "YouthGay MethFree". For additional information, email youthmethfree@pridecenterflorida.org or call (954) 463-9005.
Varsity Club at The Pride Center
Young Professionals Leading Into Tomorrow
By Sebastian A. Fortino
"The Pride Center's Varsity Club was created to help foster South Florida's up and coming community leaders, activists, and philanthropists." � The Varsity Club's mission statement. Good leadership inspires activism. However, in the LGBT-community older activists seem to lead the way, perhaps because they experienced a more intense anti-gay bias. Many veteran leaders feel young people are apathetic and often lack motivation to lead. The Varsity Club was approved by the Pride Center's Board of Directors this summer with the goal of engaging the younger demographic. "Younger people are often ignored because of financial issues, meaning they don't have enough extra funds to donate to organizations supportive of LGBTissues," said Jason Burns, a co-chair of Varsity Club's Steering Committee and Major Gifts Officer at The Pride Center at Equality Park. "We got together and asked `what do you want this to be'," said Chris Caputo, a co-founder with Burns of the group and a Board Member of the Pride Center. "We want this to be a voice for our generation. Gay marriage, for instance, seems to be led by people in the 50-plus-age bracket. Really younger people should be involved, as well." Their initial launch was held at the Wine Warehouse in July and attracted more than 40 attendees. Currently Burns, Caputo, Jason King, a patient advocate with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Kris Kenny, a recent University of Miami graduate, Enbar Cohen, Assistant Director at Safe Schools South Florida, David Katimi, Senior Product Planner with Motorola Solutions, and myself, a journalist with previous experience working with a Philadelphia-based HIV nonprofit, serve as the steering committee for The Varsity Club. Recently, The Varsity Club partnered with Women in Network to gather backpacks and school supplies for needy students at Thurgood Marshall Elementary. Teachers and students were presented with over 190 backpacks, filled with all the necessary accoutrement for a successful school year. Moving forward, members from the Varsity Club plan to collect non-perishable food items to stock The Poverello Food Pantry for Thanksgiving. On Tuesday, October 25, the Varsity Club invites the community to Chima, located at 2400 E. Las Olas from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m for the food drive kick-off. Those who decide to attend are asked to make a donation of $10, or the equivalent in food items. Your donation grants you a complementary cocktail and appetizers. If you're a young professional interested in volunteering and community service, or have any potential projects in need of volunteers, a good time to introduce yourself would be at their monthly happy hours at The Manor Entertainment Complex on Wilton Drive. The happy hour takes place on the "Final Friday" of every month starting at 5:30 p.m. Search "The Pride Center's Varsity Club" on Facebook or contact Jason Burns at jburns@PrideCenterFlorida.org to learn more information.
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Founders Reception at B Ocean Hotel
In May we had our monthly cocktail reception for our major financial supports of the Center at top of the B Ocean Hotel. What an amazing view we had! Have you considered becoming a Founders Circle Member? Photo credit: Steven Shires
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Latin Pride Gallery Focuses on HIV/STD Prevention
The Health and Community Services Program of The Pride Center is using different strategies to inform and engage the community members in adopting appropriate HIV/STD prevention behavior. One of those many strategies is the promotion of artists who are using their art work as an HIV/AIDS prevention tool. That is why "Ribbon HIV: Emilio Aponte's Manipulated Photo Collection"� was featured at the LatinPride Gallery located inside The Pride Center. Emilio Aponte is the RESPECT Coordinator at the Pride Center. RESPECT is an effective, individual client-focused HIV prevention counseling intervention founded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Founders List
Platinum Level ($10,000 and above) Anonymous (2) Embassy Suites Hotel � Fort Lauderdale Hotspots! Magazine / Peter Clark James Laird Michael Trost Wachovia Wells Fargo Foundation Diamond Level ($5,000 � $9,999) Anonymous (1) Arthur Smith, Esq. Dale Russell and Jan Carpenter David McLaren DC Allen and Ken Flick George Castrataro / Law GC Jim Stepp and Peter Zimmer The Kenneth S. Hollander Charitable Foundation Ron Ansin and Jim Stork Richard Schwarz and Tom Massey Slammer c/o Michael Horne South Florida Agenda & Mark Media Will Spencer / CAMP Inc. Gold Level ($2,500 � $4,999) A Celebration of Friends, Inc. AIDS Healthcare Foundation c/o Mark Martin Al Cicotti and Kevin Palombo / American Tax and Insurance Bayview Cadillac Bill Greeves and Robert Hubbard Bob Young City County Credit Union Coffee and Conversation Darren Frankenberger Darcy Beeman / Edward Jones Dave Litty /Agel Independent Diplomat Pharmacy Dolphin Democrats Doug Candler Doug Tinklepaugh and James Rickard / Pinnacle Constructors, LLC Ellen Krider / RBC Wealth Management Herbert Reis and William Coffey J. Alan Shemelya Jay Wilkinson, MD. Jeff Stirling / Sterling Tax and Accounting Maria Kondracki and Jim Dwyer Mark Budwig and Nick Scalzo / S.MarkGraphics Maura Lane and Ilene Berliner, Board Vice-President Metro Media Works / Chris Caputo Lisanne Cattoretti and Nicole Mannarino, Board Treasurer Robert Pavlick Ron Ansin and Jim Stork Ronnie Pryor / Source Salon Ted Emery Times Ten Creative c/o Lary Arnet and Keith Hasting Tracey Cramer / Ameriprise Victor Flores / Fast Printz Silver Level ($1,200 � $ 2,499) Anonymous (2) Adam Harpool Allied Kitchen & Bath Anthony Molluso and Bill Volbrecht Anthony Timiraos and Arthur Crispino Aseracare Home Health / MaryAnn Sannasardo, RN, BSN Bears of South Florida Best Buy Bill Linehan Boardwalk / Victor Zepka and Jim Kolkana Brenda Hartley / Bank United Bret Johnson and Adelio Orlando Brian Farley and Ron Alose Broward House Bruce Bogan / Planet Press Copy This Bruce Borger Bruce Lane Bruce Presley and Chris Hedlund Business & Professional Group � BPG Cal Harrison Carol Moran / New Moon Bar Carlos Perez Varela / The Peninsula Assisted Living Carmine Martorilli and Robert Poster Dr. Charmaine Johnson-Leong, DDS Charles Prather and Jack Johnson, Board Member Charles Walker Chris Dunham / Dunham Insurance Services Chuck Loring Church of the Holy Spirit Song Cliff Pettit and Chip Matza Cole Wolford, MD and Steven Schmidt Craig Benoit / Challenges Treatment Center Dan Michael Daniel J. O'Flaherty and Mario Flores Daniel Pye and Peter Mangone Dave Starkey and Arianto Sumargo Dave Stubbins David Bebbington David Guzman, Board Member David King c/o Hospice of Broward County David McConnell David Moon and Eugene Smith Dennis Fitzkee and Bernie Langeluttig Dominick Destefano and Mark Freeman Don Barlow Don Kramer Donald Croxton and Douglas Pew Donald Lucas Downtown Events Ed Garcia Designs Ed Nicholas and Chris Griswold / Eastside Property Management Edwin Mayer and Didier Moritz Enbar Cohen Eric Reivik and Andy Harrison / PC Lauderdale Forest Trace � Luxury Resort Adult Community Foxtail Landscape Solutions c/o Michael Haigh Fred Berger and Ken Merrifield Fred Goodyear Fred Wahl Gables Wilton Park Apartments Gary Farmer Jr. Gary Kempler Dr. Gary Richmond and Vernon Appelby Geph Scarr / Scarr Insurance Gerald Byers and Rudy Wengenroth Gerald S. Hirschtritt / Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate George Douglas and Ray Wieder George Kling, Board member Glenn Goldberg Greg Dudzek and Jayant Goyle Greg Hardy and Rick Soloway / Solutions Insurance Services Greg Moore and Allan Barsky Hal Feldberg Hans Hochkamp and Joseph DeBacco Irwin Drucker, Board Member Dr. J. Michael Heider and Thom Carr / Ultimate Smile Dental Jack Schlossberg James Burroughs James Gigliello James Jagielski James A. Johnson Jared Falek Jason Burns and Nathan Brunner Jason King and AJ Alegria Jeff & Mei Sze Greene Foundation, Inc. Jeff Maisonette and David Feinberg, Board Secretary Jeffrey Gross Jeffrey and Belinda Shover Jim Doan and Ron Norwood Jim Pierce / Pierce Aire, Inc. Joanne Hayes / BugJuice Media Joe Guerrero Joe McConnell Joe Pallant and Danny Selvin John Bolton John Jovanovich and Paul Holoweski John Leyden and Tom Valentine John Ramos and Tim Caldwelll Jorge Ajuria, MD Julia Landis and Shawn Fanshier Ken Kalederian Ken Keechl and Ted Adcock, Board Member Ken Moore and Hector Valdes Ken Tewel and Ron Duran Kent McIntyre and John Tambasco Kevin Murdoch and Drew Miller Lawrence Gordon Law Office of Cal Steinmetz Law Office Of Gregory W. Kabel Lea P. Krauss Esq, Board Member Lee Rubin and Jim Walker Lynn Corning / KL Corning, Inc. Lyons, Snyder & Collin, P.A. Mark Gordon and Aldo Buono Marc Grossman Mark Halacy and Tom Pollock Mark Kasper Mark Ketcham and Werner Lutz Dr. Mark Schweizer and Robert Voelker Mark Turner and Chuck Nicholls Mase Varley / Gecko Plumbing, Inc. Mayor's Jewelry c/o Mick Howard and Brian Jackson Michael Preihs and Khoi Luong Michael Dane / Senior Living Finders Mike Dager and Harvey Shapiro Mitchell Bloom and Paul Wardell Dr. Neel Amin and Tom Macek Neelie Sacharow Neill Hirst MD and Greg Hughes Norman Berkowitz Northern Trust Bank Norton C. Lyman and Kimeo Sato Paul Alpert Paul Hyman and Bill Bracker Paul Jennings Paul Rubenstein Peter Hardy-Smith and Steven Devito Randy Grant and Bruno Trambusti Regions Bank c/o Charles Lane Richard Nolan and Robert Pingpank Richard Safaty / Freedom Travel Richard Sargent and Peter Genovese, MD Richard Stoll, Esq., Board President Robert Boo, Board Member Robert Collier, M.D. and Charles Hunziker Robert Joshua / The Joshua Tree Robert Kuhn and Steven Geyer Rodney White and Michael Williams Rose La Femina / Akerman � Senterfitt Rosie's Bar and Grill Royce Willie Russell Sassani MD and Michael Schneider/Take Shape Plastic Surgery PA Stephen Banigan and Bill Van Scoy Stephen Cox / Networkx Stephen Driscoll and Robert Tocci Stephen Gerben and Robert Buckley Steve Barnard Steve Harmon and Donn Rubin, Board Member Steve Shires Photography Steven and Thomas Begert-Clark Steven James / Tower Entertainment Steven C. Lowensten / Five Dollar Fund of the Community Foundation Sumner T. White Ted Schultz Terry Stone and Mike Bush The Pride Institute c/o Fort Lauderdale Hospital Group Rev. Thomas Millner and Raymond Garassino Tim Marshall / Copy Source Tim Singer and Richard Cascarelli TD Bank Tom Runyan / Runyan Law Firm, P.A. Tyler Healis Will Mazza and Shawn McCormack / King's Cup Dr. Will Richardson / Natura Dermatology W. Lynn McLaughlin and David Webb William Cudequest William Thornton and Adam Kratochwill
Join the Pride Center's Founder's Circle!
Support the programs and services of the Pride Center. For more information, please contact Major Gifts Officer, Jason Burns.
jburns@PrideCenterFlorida.org jburns@PrideCenterFlorida.org
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"Healthy Happy Hour"
In August, the PALS Project's LIFE Goes On initiative partnered with Camp4Health to offer a "Health Happy Hour" experiential workshop. 74 participants heard summaries of different holistic therapies and were able to experience sample sessions. Sessions included yoga, acupuncture, Reike, deep muscle massage and meditation. The workshop was very successful and most participants left `high' from their experiences with new doors opened for improved health.
We Love Our Volunteers!
The Pride Center at Equality Park Volunteer Appreciation Pool Party and Barbeque. The Pride Center volunteers are the heartbeat of our Center. This party and barbeque is just one of the many volunteer activities hosted throughout the year to show our appreciation to our volunteers. For information on volunteering at The Pride Center at Equality Park, email Samantha at smccoy@pridecenterflorida.org.
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The Pride Center Welcomes New Board Members
Experience, Dedication and Passion Are Common Qualities
Chris' hobbies include running, cycling and raising funds for charities serving the South Florida HIV/AIDS community. This year, he is participating in the SMART Ride on The PRIDE Pack Team, which is comprised of various organizations that call Equality Park home, including the Pride Center. Brenda Hartley Brenda Hartley is Vice President and Branch Manager of the Wilton Manors branch of BankUnited, the largest financial institution headquartered in Florida. With over 30 years of banking experience, Brenda is passionate about helping her clients reach their goals ranging from buying their first home to providing financing to grow a business. Active in the local community, Brenda is currently Vice President of the Wilton Manors Business Association and on the committee for Vision 2015 for The Pride Center. She also belongs to BNI Oceanside chapter as well as a member of the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and an ambassador of the local BPG Group. Jack Johnson Jack Johnson is an organizational development consultant and executive coach with over 20 years experience in assisting leaders and their organizations identify and create the future they desire. In the process, they become more effective, efficient and masterful. His clients include leaders and teams of Fortune 500 companies and many major not-for-profit organizations. He coordinates and leads organizational development interventions, team building, strategic planning, whole system change initiatives, innovation and creativity initiatives, and learning and leadership development. Jack has served as the internal Senior Organizational Development Consultant and Executive Coach for the National Headquarters of the American Red Cross, the Smithsonian Institution, and the U.S. Naval Facilities Engineering Command. Jack authored a chapter titled "Leader as Coach of Innovation" in McGraw Hill's book, A Manager's Guide to Fostering Innovation and Creativity in Teams, published in 2010. His clients range from major corporations The Pride Center at Equality Park welcomes four new members to the Center's Board of Directors, each of whom bring useful skills and experience, to foster a solid future for The Pride Center. Chris Caputo Chris Caputo is the founder of MetroMediaWorks, an internet development and marketing firm serving South Florida. He has a Bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems from the New York Institute of Technology and is presently completing his Masters in Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University. Previous professional experience has included serving as Vice President, Technology for 944 Media Group; Director of Technology for Mirabel Technologies, and owner of Key West Tanning Salon. In addition to serving on the board of the Pride Center, Chris is an active member of Pride Center's Marketing Advisory Team and the Varsity Club. Chris also serves as a board member of the Gay and Lesbian Business Exchange, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and The Rainbow Business Coalition. like Intel, Northrop Grumman, The Principle Financial Group and Pioneer Seed to the Children's Defense Fund, the University of North Carolina, Wake Forest University, NPR and The Arts for Learning. James Walker Jim Walker is a native Floridian, a senior commercial real estate executive with over twenty-five years of professional experience and is a passionate advocate for LGBT rights. Jim has served on the Executive Committee of the Board of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), the board of Equality Maryland and chairperson of Basic Rights Montgomery. He has also served as chairman of the Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce. Prior to entering the real estate field, Walker worked for Congressman Barney Frank of Massachusetts. He earned his BA at Harvard College and his MBA at Columbia University. Currently, he lives in Fort Lauderdale with his partner, Lee Rubin. Please join us in welcoming these four talented and valuable members to The Pride Center's Board of Directors.
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Founders Reception at Mayors Jewelers
Our June Founders Circle Reception was hosted by Mick Howard and Mayors Jewelers in the Galleria Mall. Congratulations to Ryan Shultz who won the free bracelet!
Photo credit: Steven Shires
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Below, see some of our valuable supporters. To become an advertiser, please contact Jason Burns:
jburns@pridecenterflorida.org
ATTORNEY
INSURANCE
MEDIA / DESIGN
954-463-9005 ext. 104
ACCOUNTING FINANCIAL PHARMACY
BANKING HEALTH SERVICES INSURANCE
RECOVERY